Short introduction on IFMSA

The IFMSA (International Federation of Medical Students' Associations) is the International Federation of the Medical Students' Associations, whose SISM is full member.

The IFMSA was founded soon after the 2nd World War by a small group of students dreaming to travel, to look around, to witness and to build new hopes just destroyed by the war. Head office is located at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery of the University of Amsterdam. It is a recognized non government organization (NGO) by the United Nation (UN) and it is as a matter of fact the only one so recognized students'association.

The IFMSA federated associations are 70 worldwide, even mainly in Europe. Each national association pays an annual fee, which grant their independency. Many funds are grant also by UN agencies which support planned and realized activities.

Twice a year, traditionally in March and August, all the national associations' delegates meet officially. An Executive Board (President, Administrator, General Secretary) work together with the Standing Committees' Directors achieving main international projects.

Many other students (Projects' Coordinators), in addition to the above-mentioned ones, are responsible of particular projects and others are involved in the relationship activities with institutions like European Communities, UN agencies, etc. Regional and national associations, basically independent, support the IFMSA's headboard, all sharing the same aims and methods.

For more details visit IFMSA's web site